Boarding Up Windows And Doors: The Ultimate Guide To Boarding Up Windows And Doors
Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits
Boarding up your doors and windows before a storm strikes can provide an effective protection against damage. You will need some items to accomplish this.
First, measure the window's height and width, including the framing (not the trim around it or masonry). Write these measurements down to ensure you don't forget them.
Preparation
It is best to put up a board on your doors and windows prior to the occurrence of a natural or stormy weather. This will reduce damage to property and decrease the chance of dying. It takes lots of planning to put up windows. You will need to purchase and measure plywood boards, and you should be aware of the exact dimensions of each window. It takes time to cut and put in the boards in a proper manner. Fortunately, the process can be made simpler by preparing as soon as you hear of a possible storm coming in your area. You can avoid a stressful rush in the last minute and make it simpler for you and your employees.
Begin by listening to forecasters for weather and observing the guidelines of your local government. The earlier you begin the process, you'll have more time to collect the materials and store them without being overwhelmed by an approaching storm. Depending on the severity of the pending storm, you might require massive quantities of plywood to cover all of your windows. To ensure that you have the correct size, make use of a tape measure determine the height and width of each window opening. Be sure to include the trim or framing around each window, and any ledges that are extended, if necessary.
Then, calculate the dimensions of the plywood sheets you need by dividing your window's total width and height by two. For example, if width of your window is 16 inches, the thickness of each sheet should be 8 inches. If your exterior is made of wood, drill pilots holes into the plywood sheet to ensure it is aligned with the window frame below. This will prevent splitting when you screw in the screws.
If you have a bigger window than a single sheet of plywood can handle cut two sheets plywood which are each half big as the window you want to use. Then place them side-by-side on the wall. Cut a 2 by 4 in (5.1 10.2 cm) 10.2 cm) of lumber to the length the connecting edge between the sheets of plywood and place it on top of the seam. Then, screw 2.25 in (5.7cm) screws into the plywood sheet and into the bracing to join the two.
To ensure security and safety, boarding up windows and doors must be done using only solid materials that will not crack under pressure or split in high winds. Plywood is the most commonly used material to board up windows. It is simple to use, inexpensive and readily available. Choose plywood that is exterior grade (CDX) since it is more durable and contain fewer warps and knots. Hurricane or storm shutters are more durable options. They can be erected over windows that are already in place and offer better protection against shattered glasses and storms.
Once you've determined the location of the window openings, you can determine the height and width to determine the amount of plywood you will require. Then you can use a power drill to make pilot holes in the plywood sheets at 2-inch intervals around each window. Mark the studs on the wall before attaching the plywood to ensure the boards are securely fastened. If your home has wood siding, look for nailheads that may indicate the locations of studs. You can also use a drill to locate the stud locations. Make sure you drive the screws into the framing, not the trim or sheathing; a plywood panel attached only to these materials may become an hazard during strong winds.
If the size of your window is too big for a single sheet of plywood, cut two pieces that are each half the size you require. join them together with 2 by 4 inches of lumber. Label each piece of plywood so that you know which window it will be covering.
To affix the plywood panels to the wall, use corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to penetrate both the sheathing and the studs. Make sure to drive the screws into the studs in a way that they are about half as deep as the plywood is thick, but be careful not to go too deep and damage the underlying structure of your house.
It is also worth considering installing polycarbonate security glass such as DefenseLite on your primary windows. These transparent shields are secured to the existing glass and safeguard your windows and doors. They are virtually impervious to breakage and discourage burglars from gaining entry into your home.
Installation
If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, or are planning to move to one, the best way to protect yourself is to board up your doors and windows prior to the danger of a storm arrives. This task can be accomplished quickly and efficiently, however only if the plywood panels are measured, cut and labeled prior to the storm hits.
You'll need additional tools which include a drill, a saw (or nail-driven hammer if you do not have the power tool) and the level, gloves and safety glasses. It is a good idea to apply sealant to the plywood and make it waterproof.
Begin by measuring the height and width of each window opening, and then cutting your plywood sheets so they fit inside the frames, with a 4-inch overlap on all sides. This is best done on-site since you will have more control over the exact dimensions.
Utilize a circular or track saw to cut the boards to the right size be aware that you'll have to sand them down after they've been put in. Once you've got your boards in place, screw 3-inch stainless steel hanger bolts into the framing studs of each window. Use washers on each bolt, and wing nuts to secure them. Be sure that each screw penetrates at least 2 inches into the studs, to ensure that the boarding is sturdy enough to withstand high winds.
If you're building using concrete block, you can instead join the plywood to the structure using galvanized pan-head screws driven through the edges that are overlapping of each piece into bricks or cinder blocks. You will also need to drill pilot holes into the masonry and then screw corrosion resistant screws into the holes. This project can take anywhere from three to four hours per window, so it's crucial to begin the process when you learn that a hurricane warning has been issued. This will give you ample time to finish the job before the storm strikes.
Maintenance
You should be prepared to secure your doors and windows before a severe storm. This will help you avoid costly repairs and also protect your property from further damage from wind, rain debris, flying debris and other elements that could impact windows.
The proper materials can make boarding up simpler and faster. The most important thing is to determine the dimensions of the windows you'll have to cover. This will ensure that the plywood or OSB will fit snugly and won't fall off easily. If you're using plywood, ensure that you are using exterior-grade sheets, and consider adding a protective finish.
Mark the locations where screws are to be put into the board after you have measured the OSB or plywood. Then, use a drill to pre-drill holes in the plywood at intervals of 12 inches. This will allow you to safely fix the boards using hanger bolts in an emergency or in the event of a disaster. After the storm is over and the local authorities have given you the all-clear, remove the bolts but keep them in case of a need in the future.
The next step is to put the plywood panels over the windows. Be prepared to work in pairs. If you're using plywood be sure to sand the edges of the piece to make them smooth so they won't scratch paint or damage trim. Then, attach the plywood to the frame using screws that are corrosion-resistant and fit into the pilot holes. If your home has shingles made of vinyl on it, then attach the plywood directly to the shingles, and not to the wood framing.
A window that has been boarded up may be used to discourage burglars. The burglars will be more likely to target a structure with a damaged window or one that's not locked. They're also more likely attack an establishment that's been fenced off as opposed to one that's not. If you're a retail business owner, this is a matter you should take seriously.